Mitsubishi launched the Pajero Sports this week with a starting price of Rs 23.53 lacs (ex-showroom Delhi). And now it is planning on expanding its foothold in India in collaboration with Hindustan Motors. The two brands have a tie-up since 1998 and the later provides ground for assembly and marketing of the products in India. A wide range of products is offered under the Mitsubishi badge, including Lancer, Outlander, Pajero, Cedia, Montero and the newly launched Pajero Sport. Though the Mitsubishi brand has been successful in providing the right performance and quality, it failed to provide the appropriate service network and spare parts.
According to reports, Mitsubishi plans to warm up the market by expanding its dealership network with current products, before launching its next vehicle. The General Manager for Asia and Asean market of Mitsubishi, Masahiko Ueki mentioned that the company is evaluating several opportunities for its entry in the small car segment of the domestic market. It may bring to shore the Mirage hatchback, for the volume-driven small car market. The 1.2-litre engine hatchback is due to make a launch in Thailand by March end.
We previously brought you the news of the Japanese automaker bringing a model in collaboration with Hindustan Motors, and with this announcement, we can tell with certainty that the duo will be launching a car for the second largest auto market in the world, very soon. This might help Mitsubishi to rise in Indian market and compete against the Japanese rivals, Honda and Toyota.
As of now, Mitsubishi needs to develop a product line for the emerging Indian market. The Pajero Sport is already bought via CBU unit and the Hindustan Motor facility in Chennai will be providing assembly from September 2012. So as far as small car segment is concerned, it still has a long way to go.
